The Excerpt

Be inspired! USA TODAY's Women of the Year share their stories. Mar 03, 2025

USA TODAY's Women of the Year recognizes women who are making a significant difference in their communities and across the country. A paralympian, tv host and astronaut are just a few of the honorees who describe in their own words what motivates them most on this bonus episode of the Excerpt. We hope you find their stories as inspiring as we do. To learn more about all of the women honored this year, you can visit womenoftheyear.usatoday.com.

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Speaker Johnson suggests Zelenskyy may need to resign to salvage Ukraine-Russia peace process Mar 03, 2025

Speaker Mike Johnson suggested Sunday Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may need to resign to salvage the Ukraine-Russia peace process. Plus, European leaders agree to draw up a Ukraine peace plan.

Detroit Free Press Automotive Reporter Jamie L. LaReau discusses why it's so complicated for automakers to turn on a dime amid tariff concerns.

USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn discusses how the latest rollback on DEI is reversing gains for Black workers.

'Anora' wins big at the Oscars.

In our first edition of 'Kind Time,' a college baseball player homered after his mother's death. Watch more inspiring stories from Humankind.

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States with abortion bans are seeing a rise in infant deaths Mar 02, 2025

Infant mortality is rising faster than expected in states with strict abortion limits or bans. Two new studies in the medical journal JAMA reveal how restricted access to abortion can lead to higher deaths, especially for women of color. Suzanne Bell, one of the authors of the study and an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, joins The Excerpt to explain the correlation between abortion bans and increased infant mortality.

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Trump and Zelenskyy have heated exchange Mar 01, 2025

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page explains the “unprecedented” meeting between the world leaders. President Zelenskyy later declined the opportunity to apologize to President Trump during an appearance on Fox News.

The Education Department offers employees $25K to quit or retire by Monday.

Hundreds of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) employees were fired this week.

Some Americans are opting to raise their own chickens amid the rising price of eggs.

The investigation into the death of actor Gene Hackman revealed he may have been dead for 10 days before his body was found.

USA TODAY Managing Editor for Life and Entertainment Laura Trujillo shares some of what we can expect at the 97th Academy Awards.

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Judge blocks mass firing of probationary federal employees Feb 28, 2025

A federal judge in Northern California has blocked the Trump administration’s mass firing of probationary federal employees. Plus, USA TODAY Democracy Reporter Erin Mansfield discusses how President Donald Trump tried to remove officials tasked with protecting federal workers' jobs.

A search warrant reveals the deaths of actor Gene Hackman, his wife and dog in their New Mexico home are being considered “suspicious.”

President Donald Trump met with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, where Britain's leader pushed for commitments on Ukraine.

A new Pentagon policy will ban troops from serving in a gender identity other than the one assigned at birth.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé explains why many Americans are tired of cost-cutting tips.

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SPECIAL | Are we ready for a bird flu pandemic? Feb 27, 2025

As bird flu, also known as H5N1, continues to spread across the country, experts are concerned about the potential for undetected transfer and mutations. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, suggests that Americans may even be walking around with bird flu and not know it. Are we ready for a bird flu pandemic? USA TODAY Health Reporter Adrianna Rodriguez joins The Excerpt to share her reporting and tell us what she’s hearing from health officials.

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What's in the House Republican budget bill? Feb 27, 2025

USA TODAY Congressional Correspondent Riley Beggin takes a closer look at this week's passed House Republican budget bill, and what might be next from Senate Republicans.

The Supreme Court pauses a judge's order requiring the Trump administration to pay foreign aid contractors.

A child has died in the Texas measles outbreak, marking the first U.S. measles death since 2015.

President Trump will impose 25% tariffs on the European Union.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison discusses what's next as the Trump administration shifts to a new phase of large-scale cuts to the federal workforce.

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SPECIAL | Dionne Warwick on the legacy and future of the iconic Apollo Theater Feb 26, 2025

This episode is in celebration of Black History Month. For more than ninety years, the Apollo Theater, a cultural landmark in Harlem, has shaped the trajectory of entertainment in America. The list of icons is long. From Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday to Quincy Jones, Chris Rock and Stevie Wonder, it is a place of legends including those yet to be discovered. Some of today’s brightest music stars like Grammy winning jazz artist Samara Joy and Grammy winner H.E.R. seem destined for the Apollo Walk of Fame. In 1958, Dionne Warwick and her gospel group won Amateur Night at the Apollo. And just last year, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Legendary artist Dionne Warwick joins us on The Excerpt to discuss the legacy of the Apollo Theater and how it is still shaping our culture today.

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US, Ukraine agree to terms of critical minerals deal Feb 26, 2025

The U.S. and Ukraine have agreed on the terms of a draft minerals deal.

House Republicans advance a plan for President Donald Trump's legislative agenda.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes discusses how expanded ICE raids are causing problems for some schools.

A federal judge blocks President Donald Trump’s refugee program suspension.

Democratic senators met to discuss the consequences of Trump’s efforts to eliminate the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

USA TODAY Editor Karen Weintraub explains how a measles outbreak is spreading in rural parts of Texas.

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UN Security Council adopts neutral US stance on war in Ukraine Feb 25, 2025

The U.N. Security Council has adopted a neutral U.S. stance on the war in Ukraine. Plus, President Donald Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron.

A judge blocks ICE enforcement actions at houses of worship.

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe discusses what might be at stake at the high court in a case surrounding 'reverse discrimination' claims.

A judge blocks Elon Musk's DOGE from Education Department personnel information. Plus, the federal Office of Personnel Management notified workers they could ignore Elon Musk's latest DOGE directive.

USA TODAY Youth Mental Health Reporting Fellow Rachel Hale talks about sexual exploitation and its impact on American teens.

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Zelenskyy says he would step down if Ukraine can join NATO Feb 24, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he would step down if Ukraine can join NATO, while blasting President Donald Trump's mineral pitch.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Dinah Voyles Pulver takes a look at some of the impact from USAID domestically.

Pope Francis attended Mass Sunday but remains in critical condition.

USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz examines why we're seeing more generations living together under one roof.

'Conclave' wins big at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

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Is the US government facing a constitutional crisis? Feb 23, 2025

It has been one month since President Donald Trump took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. In that time, he has issued more than 70 executive orders and has bypassed Congress on issues related to citizenship, the disbursement of appropriated funds, and the overall downsizing of the federal government. What happens when one of the three branches of government overreaches and seizes power and authority from another? Critics of the president are calling it a constitutional crisis. Is that true and what does a constitutional crisis really mean? USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen joins us on The Excerpt to share his insights.

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Trump removes Joint Chiefs chairman in purge of military leaders Feb 22, 2025

President Donald Trump shakes up leadership at the Pentagon.

USA TODAY Network Florida State Watchdog Reporter Ana Goñi-Lessan discusses recent ramped up efforts by ICE in northern parts of Florida to track down immigrants who have entered the country illegally.

A judge indefinitely delays New York City Mayor Eric Adams' corruption trial.

The Supreme Court declines President Trump's emergency bid to immediately fire the head of a government ethics watchdog agency. Plus, a judge blocks Trump's ban on DEI for federal agencies and contractors.

Maine governor Janet Mills and President Trump clashed in a tense exchange at the White House over the president's threat to withhold federal funds from states that allow transgender athletes to play in girls and women's sports.

In this week's edition of Editor's Note, USA TODAY Politics and Washington Managing Editor Holly Rosenkrantz takes us behind the scenes at how her team is covering some of the latest news out of Washington and beyond.

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Trump fires federal workers who help fight forest fires Feb 21, 2025

Several federal agencies have been hit with workforce reductions since the president took office. USA TODAY White House Reporter Zac Anderson discusses how some of President Donald Trump's job cuts have hit Forest Service workers who help fight fires.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul won't oust Mayor Eric Adams but vows stricter oversight.

More than half a million Haitian refugees will lose protected status.

Researchers say Trump cuts to basic science and medical studies will hurt everyone.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé looks at the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and what its shutdown might mean for Americans.

Canada defeated the U.S. in hockey and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took a victory lap.

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SPECIAL | More men are becoming family caregivers Feb 20, 2025

With an aging baby boomer population, the demand for family caregivers in the U.S. has never been higher. While traditionally, most family caregiving has fallen to women, men are now increasingly joining their ranks. Although both sexes face a financial, emotional and physical toll, men are still the primary breadwinners in most opposite sex families, and in that aspect, face unique challenges. How can we as a society better support them? Jason Resendez, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving, joins The Excerpt to dig into these issues.

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Trump calls Ukraine's Zelenskyy a 'dictator without elections' Feb 20, 2025

Tensions continue between President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

A judge holds off on deciding whether to drop a corruption case surrounding New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen discusses a lawsuit over Trump's anti-diversity and transgender orders.

Hamas has handed over the bodies of the youngest Gaza hostages taken from Israel.

USA TODAY Congress and Campaigns Reporter Savannah Kuchar talks through new 'sex-based definitions' from the federal government.

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SPECIAL | SNL turns 50! How Lorne Michaels made comedy cool again. Feb 19, 2025

50 years ago, a Canadian comedian named Lorne Michaels kicked off the first season of what would rapidly become a cultural institution. That show is SNL, aka Saturday Night Live, a mainstay of late-night entertainment. It’s also the longest-running, most Emmy-nominated, and highest-rated weekly late-night show in television history. How has Michaels done it? Ten years ago, Susan Morrison, articles editor at The New Yorker, rolled up her sleeves to find out. Susan is the author of the newly released title “Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live,” the definitive biography of SNL executive producer Lorne Michaels, and joins The Excerpt to share her insights.

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US, Russia meet on Ukraine ceasefire negotiations Feb 19, 2025

The U.S. and Russia met Tuesday on Ukraine ceasefire negotiations, while Ukraine and other European nations were shut out of the talks.

USA TODAY Democracy Reporter Erin Mansfield discusses a complaint filed by lawyers, arguing President Donald Trump's mass firing of probationary employees was illegal and not performance-based.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is scrambling to rehire fired employees who play a key role in the agency's response to bird flu. Plus, a judge won't block Elon Musk's records access because states couldn't show 'irreparable harm.'

USA TODAY Money and Personal Finance Reporter Medora Lee talks about the possibility of IRS staffing cuts and what that might mean for taxpayers.

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18 injured after Delta Air Lines plane crashes, flips at Toronto airport Feb 18, 2025

A regional jet flipped upside down upon arrival at Canada's Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Terry Collins discusses this week's protests against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Pope Francis remains in the hospital as doctors treat an infection.

El Paso Times Border and Immigration Reporter Jeff Abbott breaks down a lawsuit over the elimination of ICE's sensitive locations policy.

As sports betting skyrockets, more Americans search for addiction help, according to a new study.

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Trump spending freeze sticks farmers with millions in bills for conservation work Feb 17, 2025

Des Moines Register Agriculture, Environment and Energy Reporter Donnelle Eller discusses how President Donald Trump's spending freeze has stuck Iowa farmers with millions in bills for conservation work.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Saudi Arabia ahead of Russia talks to end the war in Ukraine. Plus, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says he is willing to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine after the war.

A judge blocks mass layoffs at the consumer protection agency targeted by Trump.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise explains why a futuristic-looking solar energy plant is doomed.

It's President's Day!

And Monday is Random Acts of Kindness Day.

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Sheriff Enrique Tarrio? Proud Boys leader mulls his future Feb 16, 2025

On January 20th, less than two years into a 22-year federal prison sentence for seditious conspiracy for his role in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, Henry “Enrique” Tarrio was pardoned by newly elected President Donald Trump. Tarrio is the former (and possibly current) leader of the Proud Boys, a loose nationwide coalition of men who have targeted various communities in the past. USA TODAY National Correspondent and Extremism Reporter Will Carless joins The Excerpt to share insights from his exclusive sit-down with Enrique Tarrio.

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Thousands fired across federal workforce Feb 15, 2025

Thousands have been fired across the federal workforce, as President Donald Trump and Elon Musk escalate their government purge.

In this week's edition of Editor's Note, USA TODAY Immigration Editor Karen Weintraub discusses how the newsroom is approaching a shifting immigration landscape. If you have a topic you want to hear from an editor, send us a note at podcasts@usatoday.com.

Federal prosecutors drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Trump orders the defunding of schools that mandate COVID-19 vaccines.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé takes a look at the debate over government alcohol guidance.

A few minutes of bird watching this weekend can help scientists: Here's how to participate.

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Trump moves to slap tariffs on nearly every nation Feb 14, 2025

President Donald Trump made another major move on tariffs Thursday.

USA TODAY World Affairs Correspondent Kim Hjelmgaard takes a look at the impact from President Trump's executive order to freeze spending, pending a review, at the U.S. Agency for International Development.

RFK Jr. was sworn in Thursday as Secretary of Health and Human Services.

The Manhattan U.S. Attorney resigns over a 'rushed' DOJ process to drop charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams.

USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz discusses what's going on with recent tech layoffs.

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SPECIAL | 60 years on, will Malcolm X's killers ever be brought to justice? Feb 13, 2025

This year marks 60 years since of the assassination of Malcolm X, a civil rights leader who pierced the consciousness of a racially divided nation. In 1966, three men were convicted in his shooting death, two of whom were exonerated in 2021. Revelations from the overturning of those convictions has led to a $100 million lawsuit, filed last November, by the three daughters of Malcolm X. In it, they accuse the NYPD, FBI and CIA of playing a role in the murder of their father. What really happened the day Malcolm X was murdered and how can we understand his significance to civil rights in America? Peniel Joseph, an American scholar, teacher, and public voice on race issues, joins The Excerpt to discuss the 60-year legacy of Malcolm X.

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ACLU sues over immigrants sent to Guantanamo Feb 13, 2025

USA TODAY National Immigration Reporter Lauren Villagran breaks down the ACLU's lawsuit over immigrants sent to Guantanamo Bay, and tells us about one mother's anguish.

The Trump administration sues New York state over immigration.

75,000 federal workers take President Donald Trump's buyouts as the offer expires. Plus, in other news out of Washington, Tulsi Gabbard has been confirmed by the Senate as national intelligence director. And - Trump says he and Russian President Vladimir Putin plan to meet in Saudi Arabia.

Grocery prices in January were up 0.5% from December, and up 1.9% from the same month last year.

USA TODAY TV Reporter Erin Jensen stops by with her Valentine's Day date Casey Johnson after a nationwide search.

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SPECIAL | What can we learn by listening to icebergs? Feb 12, 2025

Icebergs are bellwethers of environmental changes. Their formation, movement and melting offer insights into some of the most extreme areas of the cryosphere, such as Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic Ocean. Scientists have long monitored icebergs because of their role in regulating our climate. But what do the sounds they make reveal? Geophysicist Vera Schlindwein, professor of polar and marine seismology at the University of Bremen in Germany, joins The Excerpt to discuss these breathtaking frozen wonders.

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Eric Adams sees fortunes turn on Trump actions Feb 12, 2025

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page discusses what a reprieve for New York Mayor Eric Adams tells us about the Trump era.

American school teacher Marc Fogel has been released by Russia after more than three years in custody.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Michael Collins discusses worries over Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency gaining access to personal information. Plus, the Education Department will shield federal student aid data from DOGE – for now.

Flu cases surge to the highest levels in 15 years.

Monty the Giant Schnauzer wins Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show.

USA TODAY's 2025 Restaurants of the Year.

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Trump wants Israel to cancel ceasefire if Hamas doesn't release hostages by Saturday Feb 11, 2025

Hamas says it will stop releasing hostages, while accusing Israel of ceasefire violations. Israel accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire agreement.

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen breaks down why a group of states sued over billions in research cuts.

Also in the courts, a judge extended the pause on a deadline for federal workers to decide on buyouts. Plus, a judge ruled the Trump White House failed to comply with a court order on frozen federal spending. And - refugee resettlement organizations asked a federal judge Monday to restore the U.S. refugee program.

In other White House news, Trump fired the government's top ethics official. And he's announced a plan to stop making new pennies.

USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook digs into the Pentagon's revival of its ban on transgender troops joining the military.

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Elon Musk is igniting a fierce debate with moves at federal agencies Feb 10, 2025

USA TODAY White House Reporter Zac Anderson discusses how Elon Musk is igniting a debate with moves at federal agencies.

The Philadelphia Eagles prevent the Kansas City Chiefs' three-peat in the Super Bowl. Plus, Kendrick Lamar makes history at halftime.

President Donald Trump prepares tariffs on steel and aluminum.

USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire talks about some of the frustrations for federal employees amid a buyout offer.

Advocates are stepping up for Black History Month as federal agencies scale back.

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How do you love a forest? Ethan Tapper has thoughts. Feb 09, 2025

With climate change, the threat of wildfires, and human encroachment among other things, our trees and forests are in desperate need of guardians. From tropical rainforests, often referred to as the lungs of the planet, to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in California’s White Mountains, home to some of the oldest living organisms on earth, what is being done to protect our woodlands? Forester and author Ethan Tapper joins The Excerpt to share both his practical and philosophical perspectives outlined in his new book, "How to Love a Forest: The Bittersweet Work of Tending a Changing World."

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Judges are pausing Trump policy changes. But for how long? Feb 08, 2025

USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer takes a look at some of the pushback in the courts to the Trump administration's early moves.

President Donald Trump says Elon Musk's next DOGE targets are the Pentagon and Education Department.

The Coast Guard finds the missing plane in Alaska and all 10 on board are believed dead.

The New York governor shuts down poultry markets after several cases of bird flu were detected in New York City.

USA TODAY Sports Video Executive Producer Christine Conetta gives us a look at her team's coverage of the build-up to the Super Bowl in this week's edition of Editor's Note.

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Trump's buyout offer for federal workers paused by judge hours before deadline Feb 07, 2025

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe has the latest on President Donald Trump's buyout offer and what's next in court.

President Trump signs an executive order targeting 'anti-Christian bias.'

The U.S. Treasury temporarily agrees to limit DOGE access.

Alaska rescue crews search for a missing airplane with 10 onboard.

USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz takes a look at the conversation around potentially removing taxes on tips.

Shohei Ohtani's ex-interpreter Ippei Mizuhara has been sentenced after defrauding the baseball star.

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SPECIAL | Coffee, chocolate, peaches: climate change is affecting them all Feb 06, 2025

While agriculture is currently a greenhouse gas contributor, accounting for about 30% of global emissions, it's also being dramatically impacted by our warming planet. Many foods we consider essential will simply not be around for our children and grandchildren. But it’s not all doom and gloom. New tools and technologies hold incredible promise when it comes to not just slowing down climate change but actually fighting it. Culinary Entrepreneur Sam Kass, former chef to the Obamas, joins The Excerpt to help us understand the role of food and agriculture in the global fight against global warming.

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Trump's early moves to reshape the government, remake the world Feb 06, 2025

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page takes a step back to look at the first few weeks of President Donald Trump's second term.

Anti-Trump and anti-Elon Musk protesters rally in cities across the country.

Trump signs an executive order targeting transgender women in sports.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé discusses why younger retirees depend mostly on Social Security.

New York Fashion Week is here!

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SPECIAL | American counterculture movements: where the past meets the present Feb 05, 2025

From conservative social movements such as those tied to prohibition, the Moral Majority evangelicals, and the Tea Party, to liberal social movements focused on Civil Rights, Women’s Liberation and LGBTQ+ Rights, America is no stranger to social dissent. But what makes a social movement a counterculture movement? And what have been some of the unique intersections between counterculture movements and the arts, money, and even violence? Alex Zamalin, professor of Africana Studies and Political Science at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, joins The Excerpt to explore how counterculture becomes the culture. His new book “Counterculture: The Story of America from Bohemia to Hip-Hop” is out now.

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Trump says the US should take over Gaza and does not rule out using US troops Feb 05, 2025

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers recaps President Donald Trump's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Trump's eyebrow-raising comments about the future of Gaza.

At least 20,000 federal workers have taken President Trump's buyout offer as a Thursday deadline nears.

USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn explains why some disabled federal workers fear for their jobs after recent remarks from President Trump.

Almost all USAID workers worldwide have been placed on leave.

You might have a spoon's worth of microplastics - in your brain. For more on microplastics, check out our special deep dive episode.

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US tariffs on Canada, Mexico paused; China hits back with tariffs of its own Feb 04, 2025

Expected tariffs on Canada and Mexico have been paused, while new tariffs on China go ahead. China has responded with its own tariffs.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison takes a look at the future of foreign aid after President Donald Trump moves to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development.

President Donald Trump makes DOGE head Elon Musk a 'special government employee.' Plus, Democrats attack Musk's Treasury Department takeover.

President Trump orders the creation of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund with the potential to purchase TikTok.

USA TODAY Reporter Andrea Riquier breaks down a report that found climate risk will take a trillion-dollar bite out of America's real estate.

Rat populations are growing in some cities and climate change is a major factor.

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Trump to talk tariffs with leaders of Canada and Mexico Feb 03, 2025

President Donald Trump will speak with the leaders of Canada and Mexico Monday after a tense weekend over tariffs.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen takes a look at some of the early Trump policies already breaking norms.

Authorities say the Black Hawk helicopter that collided with a passenger jet near Washington, D.C. last week may have been flying higher than the maximum altitude for its training mission.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise talks about an undersea volcano off the West Coast, and why its imminent eruption matters to scientists.

Beyoncé wins album of the year.

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Astronauts on the ISS share their 'life-changing' view Feb 02, 2025

The International Space Station, orbiting approximately 250 miles above Earth, is both a marvel of human creativity and engineering. Astronauts from around the world have called it home. Four Americans who do so currently are Expedition 72 Commander Suni Williams, and Flight Engineers Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Don Pettit. They joined The Excerpt to share what folks on the Earth should know about the science experiments they are conducting and the perspective gained from even just one lap around the planet.

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Trump to hit Canada, Mexico and China with tariffs beginning Saturday Feb 01, 2025

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison breaks down President Donald Trump's announcement of new tariffs.

A Medevac jet crashed into a residential Philadelphia neighborhood Friday evening, with six people on board.

Officials recover the helicopter's black box after this week's collision. Remember the victims here.

Mexico’s president explains why Google shouldn't rename the Gulf of Mexico.

USA TODAY White House and Congress Editor Darren Samuelsohn gives us a look at some of the editorial decisions during a tragic week for the country in our Editor's Note segment.

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'Black box' flight data recorder recovered in DC plane crash Jan 31, 2025

USA TODAY Aviation Reporter Zach Wichter takes a look at what's next for the investigation into this week's deadly plane and helicopter collision.

We pay tribute to those lost in the crash.

USA TODAY Democracy Reporter Erin Mansfield breaks down President Donald Trump's comments over DEI in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Senate confirmation hearings continued Thursday.

Hamas releases more Gaza hostages.

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SPECIAL | L.A.'s wildfires have only intensified the city's decades-long housing crisis Jan 30, 2025

As wildfires continue to erupt across greater Los Angeles, the urgency of the housing crisis is front and center for Angelinos. With thousands of homes gone, the various issues that have plagued the real estate industry since the '80s are just that much more urgent. Where will people live and at what cost? Peter Dreier, an urban and environmental policy professor at Occidental College, joins The Excerpt to discuss the worsening situation and what it means for the people who call L.A. home.

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Plane collides with helicopter, crashes into DC river; bodies reportedly recovered Jan 30, 2025

An American Airlines passenger jet with 64 people aboard and a military helicopter collided Wednesday night.

President Donald Trump orders his administration to begin preparations on a facility at the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay to house up to 30,000 migrants detained for being in the U.S. without legal authorization.

USA TODAY White House Reporter Zac Anderson gives some of his major takeaways after the first day of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearing.

The Trump administration rescinds a freeze memo on federal grants.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison breaks down President Donald Trump's buyout offer for federal employees who don't wish to return to work at the office.

The Trump administration ends deportation protection for Venezuelan immigrants.

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SPECIAL | LinkedIn Co-Founder Reid Hoffman talks about AI's promise of superagency Jan 29, 2025

Fears about how AI will utterly transform our lives in the years ahead are rampant. From replacing us in our jobs, to posing an existential threat to humanity itself, there’s no end to the negative hype this technological revolution has fueled. But what if our fears are simply unfounded, part of a predictable short-sighted response of rejecting change like the Luddites did two centuries earlier when machines revolutionized the textile industry. In his new book "Superagency, What Could Possibly Go Right with Our AI Future" Linked-in Co-Founder Reid Hoffman argues that our fear-focused response to AI ignores the incredible promise this technological revolution holds. Reid joined The Excerpt to share his thoughts.

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Judge temporarily blocks Trump policy that aimed to freeze federal grant funding Jan 29, 2025

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen takes a look at what's next after a federal judge temporarily blocked a Trump administration policy that aimed to review grants and loans to ensure they complied with his priorities.

Caroline Kennedy calls Robert F. Kennedy Jr. a predator ahead of his confirmation hearing.

The State Department allows the distribution of H.I.V. medications in foreign countries to continue. It had been frozen after President Trump ordered a pause on foreign aid.

Trump orders the federal government not to fund or assist with gender transitions for youth.

A new strain of bird flu has been found in California.

Humanity is at its closest yet to destroying itself, according to Tuesday's reset of the "Doomsday Clock."

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Justice Department fires employees who worked on Trump prosecutions under Jack Smith Jan 28, 2025

The Justice Department has fired employees who worked on Donald Trump prosecutions under special counsel Jack Smith.

USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire takes a closer look at Kash Patel - Trump's pick to lead the FBI - and his role in Jan. 6 misinformation.

Trump pledges sweeping tariffs on steel, semiconductors and other imports. Plus, Trump is ending DEI in the military and reinstating troops who refused COVID-19 vaccines.

USA TODAY Money and Personal Finance Reporter Medora Lee explains how news over a Chinese startup's AI model rattled markets.

What's next for California wildfires after rain relief?

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Trump holds off on Colombia tariffs after reaching agreement on deportation flights Jan 27, 2025

President Donald Trump is holding off imposing tariffs and sanctions he threatened Sunday on Colombia after a spat over deportation flights.

Trump floats a plan to move Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan.

USA TODAY Reporter Andrea Riquier looks into whether we're facing an insurance crisis.

It's been 80 years since the liberation of Auschwitz.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise gives an explainer on the doomsday clock and what a Tuesday update might tell us about humanity.

The Super Bowl matchup is set!

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President Trump's radical immigration agenda takes shape Jan 26, 2025

While on the campaign trail, then presidential-candidate Donald Trump made illegal immigration his signature issue and also his scapegoat, routinely equating immigrants with criminals. On Day 1 of his presidency, Trump sought to make good on his campaign promises, signing a flurry of executive orders related to the southern border, illegal immigration and refugee admissions. What’s in all of this legislation and what kinds of impacts are we already seeing? USA TODAY National Reporter Lauren Villagran joins The Excerpt to share her reporting.

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Combat unit ordered to prep for border as part of Trump deportation push Jan 25, 2025

USA TODAY White House and Pentagon Reporter Davis Winkie discusses how the military may be used for immigration purposes.

The Senate votes to confirm Pete Hegseth as secretary of Defense.

In his travels to disaster zones Friday, President Donald Trump again suggested abolishing FEMA.

President Trump cancels Dr. Anthony Fauci's security detail.

USA TODAY Managing Editor for Politics, Legal Affairs and World News Holly Rosenkrantz gives us an inside peek at how her team covered this historic week for news, as part of a new weekly segment called Editor's Note.

Pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao make their U.S. debut. Listen to our deep dive episode on panda diplomacy here.

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Trump deputizes thousands of federal agents to arrest immigrants Jan 24, 2025

President Donald Trump is expanding the pool of federal law enforcement officers who can investigate and apprehend immigrants. Plus, a judge blocked Trump's birthright citizenship order.

USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey discusses Trump's threats of withholding federal funds amid Los Angeles fires, ahead of his trip there Friday.

President Trump orders a crypto working group to draft new regulations and explore the possibility of a national stockpile.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Swapna Venugopal breaks down Trump's comments to the Davos World Economic Forum.

Oscar nominations are out. Did your favorite get snubbed?

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SPECIAL | On the frontlines of the fentanyl crisis, is Naloxone the answer? Jan 23, 2025

Deaths from fentanyl are falling. The promising news comes as the overdose antidote naloxone becomes more widely available. But are dropping death rates concealing other issues in the fight against this brutal form of addiction? Reuters Investigative Reporter Maurice Tamman joined The Excerpt to discuss what he's seeing on the ground where addiction and death are still the reality.

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Trump freed Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders. What's next for their groups? Jan 23, 2025

USA TODAY National Correspondent Will Carless discusses what's next for the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers after pardons this week.

Los Angeles County's Hughes wildfire forces evacuations.

USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn takes a closer look at President Donald Trump's executive order on DEI.

A quarter million LGBTQ+ youth and family members have moved to other states because of anti-LGBTQ politics or laws, a new report says.

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SPECIAL | Love, marriage and disability Jan 22, 2025

Squirmy and Grubs are not your typical YouTube stars. One is them is able-bodied. The other is not. How they navigate the challenges that dichotomy presents is the point. So is how normal their lives as an interabled couple really are. The story of Hannah and Shane Burcaws’ relationship and others like it is captured in their new book, "Interabled: True Stories about Love and Disability." They joined The Excerpt to talk about what they hope abled couples understand about interabled love.

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Pete Hegseth former sister-in-law, in signed testimony, says he raged at ex-wife Jan 22, 2025

USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook discusses the allegations against President Donald Trump's pick for secretary of Defense.

A pastor told President Trump to 'have mercy' on migrants and transgender children at an inauguration prayer service.

Wildfires prompt evacuations near San Diego.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise discusses what a Trump executive order means for wind energy.

Records were set Tuesday as heavy snow blanketed the Gulf Coast.

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'America's decline is over.' Trump returns to the White House Jan 21, 2025

USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey gives some of the biggest takeaways from President Donald Trump's Inauguration Day.

Trump's new meme coin soars.

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen breaks down Trump's executive orders surrounding January 6 pardons, and the southern border.

Trump Monday also signed an order on TikTok and removed the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, among other moves.

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Trump set to begin second term as Inauguration Day arrives Jan 20, 2025

It's Inauguration Day. Here's what to expect. Plus, USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison discusses what Donald Trump plans as part of his first 100 executive actions in his second term.

A ceasefire has begun between Israel and Hamas.

What's next for TikTok? Trump proposes 50% U.S. ownership.

Santa Ana winds threaten again this week as fires continue to burn in Southern California.

Four teams remain in the NFL Playoffs, with next weekend's conference championship games now set.

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What does the future of the cryptocurrency market look like under Trump 2.0? Jan 19, 2025

As Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20th, the cryptocurrency world awaits with bated breath. Not only has the president-elect promised to make America the “crypto capital of the planet,” he’s welcoming several devotees into his new administration. And as far as popularity goes, crypto has never had more fans. Bitcoin, by far the most popular among other cryptocurrencies, passed the $100,000 mark for the first time just last December. Could this be the year crypto goes mainstream, taking its place beside the US-backed dollar as the global currency to watch? Laura Shin, crypto journalist, and host of the Unchained podcast, joins The Excerpt to help us understand how a new Trump administration might impact the cryptocurrency market. (Note: This interview was recorded prior to the recent $TRUMP meme coin release.)

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Refugees and resettlement groups brace for a second Trump presidency Jan 18, 2025

USA TODAY National Correspondent Chris Kenning discusses how refugees and advocates are preparing for a second term for President-elect Donald Trump.

Protests are expected this weekend ahead of Trump's Monday inauguration.

Crews make progress on Los Angeles-area fires. Plus, California fires are growing larger and more destructive in general.

USA TODAY TV Reporter Erin Jensen tells us about her public search for Mr. Right. Nominate yourself or someone you know to win a dream date with her.

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US 'confident' Gaza ceasefire will begin Sunday Jan 17, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Friday that the Israeli cabinet will meet to give final approval for the truce, following newly reported Israeli strikes in Gaza.

USA TODAY Congress Reporter Riley Beggin discusses the importance of the relationship between President-elect Donald Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson ahead of Trump's inauguration Monday.

Firefighters are making progress against deadly Los Angeles-area wildfires. But strong winds could return next week.

Filmmaker David Lynch has died at 78.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé breaks down the debate over the H-1B visa.

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SPECIAL | Healthcare insurance is broken. How do we fix it? Jan 16, 2025

The brazen murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in broad daylight in midtown Manhattan last year has open the floodgates to an outpouring of anger and frustration with the health insurance industry. Across the country, whether it’s about skyrocketing financial costs or access to care, there seems to be a wide agreement that health insurance in America is broken. The question is how to fix it. How can policy incentivize the industry to be better stewards of the health of its members without fueling unsustainable costs or incentivizing waste? What solutions are on the table and how might they shape the future of healthcare in America? Vivian Ho, Chair in Health Economics at Rice University, joins The Excerpt to share policy proposals currently being debated.

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Israel and Hamas reach deal on Gaza ceasefire, hostage release Jan 16, 2025

USA TODAY World Affairs Correspondent Kim Hjelmgaard breaks down what a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas means for the conflict going forward.

President Joe Biden says farewell to the nation.

USA TODAY White House Reporter Zac Anderson recaps a busy day of Senate confirmation hearings.

President-elect Donald Trump is considering issuing an executive order after he takes office to try to save TikTok in the U.S.

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SPECIAL | Our faith in democracy is at an all-time low. Can citizen assemblies help? Jan 15, 2025

Citizen assemblies involve ordinary people participating in crafting policy solutions to community problems and have been around for over fifty years. Is this potentially a solution to restoring faith in our democratic institutions and reinvigorating healthy debate? Linn Davis, a program director at Healthy Democracy, a non-profit organization that promotes this innovative method of public engagement, joins The Excerpt to share recent learnings about how we can keep the public's engagement in our government both robust and accountable.

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Hegseth grilled in Defense confirmation hearing Jan 15, 2025

USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook recaps a Senate grilling for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's pick to run the Defense Department.

Schools are trying to get ahead of Donald Trump's plans for undocumented students.

There's been increased containment to two major fires in Southern California, but high winds pose new threats.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison takes a look at President Joe Biden's defining legacy.

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Special counsel Jack Smith says in final report that he could have convicted Donald Trump Jan 14, 2025

Special counsel Jack Smith's bombshell final report was released early Tuesday.

Winds again pick up strength in Southern California, amid wildfires.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers puts President Joe Biden's comments about his foreign policy record in context.

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page has some new exclusive USA TODAY/Suffolk University polling numbers, ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House.

Can you read cursive? The National Archives is looking for you.

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Death toll rises to 24 as LA crews race to contain historic wildfires Jan 13, 2025

High winds are expected to complicate firefighting efforts in California this week. Plus, groups rescue dozens of animals from fire-ravaged areas.

USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey breaks down the race for the next Democratic party chair.

President Joe Biden spoke Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid cease-fire talks.

USA TODAY Reporter Andrea Riquier takes a look at the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

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The high seas are rife with lawlessness Jan 12, 2025

Over fifty million people work on our oceans around the world and over 80% of the goods we consume are delivered by vessels navigating them. But when it comes to maintaining law and order on the high seas, is there anyone really in charge? Journalist Ian Urbina has spent over a decade trying to get to the bottom of this and other pressing questions. The result is The Outlaw Ocean Project, a multiplatform reporting effort whose goal is to support and encourage ethically sourced accountability journalism of all that takes place in or atop our vast oceans. Director and Founder Ian Urbina joins The Excerpt to talk about his work trying to bring accountability to the high seas.

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11 dead, 12K structures destroyed in LA fires Jan 11, 2025

Los Angeles area fires are turning entire neighborhoods into ash.

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen puts Donald Trump's hush money sentencing in context.

The Biden administration extends protections for nearly 1 million immigrants.

USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down Friday arguments over TikTok.

Earth passed a critical climate change threshold in 2024.

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Death toll rises from raging LA wildfires Jan 10, 2025

At least 10 people have been killed in Los Angeles area wildfires, while more than 10,000 structures have been destroyed.

USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz talks about the insurance impact from this week's wildfires.

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page recaps late President Jimmy Carter's funeral, and discusses his lasting legacy.

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SPECIAL | Is prison labor constitutional? Is it ethical? Jan 09, 2025

The practice of profiting from prison labor, both inside prisons and outside for private industries is complex and fraught. Last month in Alabama, a Hyundai supplier ended its work release program following intense pressure to do so. But, in California, Proposition 6, which would have banned involuntary prison labor, was defeated last November. Are laws that allow private industry as well as state governments to profit from prison labor constitutional? Darrick Hamilton, the Henry Cohen Professor of Economics and Urban Policy at The New School, and Chief Economist of the AFL-CIO joins The Excerpt to explain the way some of these programs work and to share what both proponents and detractors of the practice say about them.

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More than 100K forced to evacuate as deadly Los Angeles fires burn out of control Jan 09, 2025

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise explains why fires in Southern California have gotten so dangerous so quickly this week.

It's a national day of mourning for the late President Jimmy Carter. You can watch the funeral service here.

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen breaks down a decision by Attorney General Merrick Garland to release a Trump report on election charges, but not classified records.

Affordable Care Act signups reach record levels.

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SPECIAL | USA TODAY's Susan Page shares her insights from her exclusive conversation with President Biden Jan 08, 2025

As President Joe Biden’s term as the 46th president of the United States draws to a close, we look at his legacy in the sweeping arc of history. What accomplishments is he most proud of and what regrets, if any, does he have? How does he hope history writes the first chapter of his single term in office? USA TODAY’s Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page was given the exclusive opportunity to speak with President Biden before he leaves office later this month. USA TODAY Editor-in-Chief Caren Bohan spoke with Susan about her insights and impressions from their conversation.

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Trump won't rule out military force to acquire Greenland, Panama Canal Jan 08, 2025

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison takes a closer look at President-elect Donald Trump's comments about Greenland and the Panama Canal.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom declares a state of emergency as the Palisades Fire rages.

After record highs, illegal immigration plummets at the U.S.-Mexico border.

USA TODAY Congress & Campaigns Reporter Savannah Kuchar discusses the scene in Washington as the remains of President Jimmy Carter arrived Tuesday.

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New York judge rejects Trump's request to delay Friday sentencing in hush money case Jan 07, 2025

USA TODAY Justice Department Correspondent Bart Jansen has the latest ahead of Friday sentencing in President-elect Donald Trump's hush money case.

A Louisiana patient has died from bird flu.

A judge holds Rudy Giuliani in contempt in a Georgia election worker defamation case.

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison breaks down President Joe Biden's move to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling along most U.S. coasts.

The McDonald’s flip on DEI brings another win for conservative critics.

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A new Trump era: Congress to certify election victory four years after Jan. 6 riot Jan 06, 2025

It's been four years since Donald Trump supporters attacked the Capitol to stop Congress from certifying his election loss. It's also the start to a new Trump era. USA TODAY White House Correspondent Michael Collins puts the day in context.

Winter storms hit some 60 million Americans.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise discusses why scientists are keeping a watchful eye on whether anyone is deliberately tampering with the atmosphere.

Who won big at the Golden Globes?

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Five years on, have people recovered from COVID? Jan 05, 2025

Five years ago this month the COVID-19 virus started ravaging populations, changing life here in America and around the globe. Many shrugged it off initially. It wasn’t until March 9th when the CDC, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, declared it a pandemic. In Quinter, Kansas, a small rural town of about 1,000 and in surrounding Gove County, it devastated the population, killing 1 in 132. That made Gove the deadliest county in the U.S. in December of 2020. Five years on, how have residents recovered, or have they? USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes revisits Quinter and shares the lasting impacts in a place that suffered such huge losses.

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Johnson wins the battle for House speaker Jan 04, 2025

House Speaker Mike Johnson won back his job for another term Friday after a tight vote.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes reports from New Orleans after this week's devastating terror attack.

A New York judge upheld the felony conviction of President-elect Donald Trump Friday and set sentencing for Jan. 10, but said Trump would receive no prison or probation.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé breaks down the surgeon general's advisory about alcohol and cancer.

Boeing highlights quality improvements under a new production safety plan.

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A timeline of driver's movements before New Orleans attack Jan 03, 2025

USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison talks through some of the latest developments in the wake of this week's New Orleans terror attack.

Will House Speaker Mike Johnson keep his job?

Donald Trump will hold a 'victory rally' in Washington on the eve of Inauguration Day.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Chris Kenning tells us about the latest American treasure hunt.

The College Football Playoff semifinals are now set.

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SPECIAL | Native art has a rich history, but young artists want to expand Jan 02, 2025

For centuries, Native American art has been viewed through the lens of collectors, art historians, and tourists. But how have Native artists considered their own work? For many tribal artists, there was a financial incentive to create objects that would appeal to non-Natives. But that’s changing. Across the U.S., Indigenous artists are fighting stereotypes, protesting cultural appropriation, and carving spaces for their work in museums and galleries beyond those reserved for Native artists. Indigenous Affairs Reporter Debra Utacia Krol, a correspondent for The Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY network, joins The Excerpt to discuss how Native art has grown and evolved.

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New Orleans attack victims mourned Jan 02, 2025

At least 15 people were killed in a New Year's terror attack in New Orleans.

USA TODAY Money and Consumer News Editor Charisse Jones discusses some economic optimism following Donald Trump's election win.

Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts warns that courts' independence is under threat from violence.

USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise talks about the supervolcano under Yellowstone.

It's been 40 years since seat belts became part of U.S. culture.

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SPECIAL | PhD student finds lost city in Mexico jungle by accident Jan 01, 2025

An ancient, lost city in Southern Mexico hidden under jungle canopy for centuries, spotted via just searching on Google. Luke Auld-Thomas’ research on Mayan settlements had him poking around on the internet which led him to a LIDAR survey - a laser-based technology used in this case for terrain mapping. When he ran the data, he realized there was an entire city, of a significant size, entirely covered in dense vegetation. What’s it like, finding a whole city, without ever setting foot on the ground? And could there be more of these ancient settlements, just a few clicks away, waiting to be found? Tulane doctoral student Luke Auld-Thomas joins The Excerpt to share how he stumbled into the discovery of a lifetime.

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New gun laws in 2025 Jan 01, 2025

New gun laws are coming in 2025.

Drugmakers will raise U.S. prices on over 250 medicines starting January 1.

USA TODAY National Trending Desk Editor Amanda Lee Myers discusses Dry January.

What stories are we keeping an eye on in 2025?

USA TODAY Reporter Karissa Waddick talks about the popularity of polar plunging.

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Jimmy Carter state funeral set for Jan. 9 Dec 31, 2024

Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state at the Capitol rotunda.

Chinese state-sponsored hackers breached the Treasury Department's computer security and stole documents.

USA TODAY Consumer Travel Reporter Zach Wichter looks at some airline topics he's keeping an eye on in 2025.

President-elect Donald Trump loses an appeal of a sexual abuse and defamation judgment in the E. Jean Carroll case.

USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé explains which documents you should keep and which ones you can toss.

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Remembering Jimmy Carter Dec 30, 2024

USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page remembers former President Jimmy Carter.

A team of U.S. investigators is being assembled to aid South Korea's probe into a commercial plane crash Sunday that killed 179 people.

USA TODAY Congress and Campaigns Reporter Riley Beggin looks ahead to a new Congress.

A nonprofit helps foster dogs who accidentally cross over the border.

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The AI doom loop is real. How can we harness its strength? Dec 29, 2024

As the world changes, we must adapt to it. Enter AI. Type ‘losing jobs to AI’ in your search engine and the headlines generated: AI will shrink workforces, AI blamed for the most job losses ever, AI is coming for the professional class – are stark. How can we break out of the AI doom loop and focus on using it to our advantage? Best-selling author and life coach Jim Frawley joins The Excerpt to discuss how to not only embrace change, but master it.

This episode originally aired on August 4, 2024.

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Trump asks Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban Dec 28, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to pause a TikTok ban, arguing he can find a way to "save" the platform without compromising national security or Americans' free speech rights.

A debate picks up steam between Trump supporters over the role of immigrant labor and American workers.

USA TODAY Breaking News Reporter Christopher Cann has the latest after the suspect in a New York City subway killing was indicted on murder and arson charges.

Sportscaster Greg Gumbel has died at 78.

USA TODAY Democracy Reporter Erin Mansfield talks about the bald eagle finally becoming America's national bird.

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Guatemala open to accepting Trump's Central American deportees Dec 27, 2024

Guatemala is open to accepting President-elect Donald Trump's Central American deportees from other countries.

USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer discusses why a center for coordinating U.S. efforts to counter foreign disinformation shut down this week.

Sources say a Russian air-defense system downed an Azerbaijan plane this week, killing dozens.

USA TODAY Health Reporter Karen Weintraub takes a look at the FDA's new rules on "healthy" food labels, set to take effect in February.

Do you qualify for an IRS stimulus check?

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SPECIAL | Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis present "Warriors" Dec 26, 2024

"The Warriors," both a novel as well as a late 1970’s movie, is now a concept album from the creative minds of Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis, both of whom have too many credits to name. Eisa Davis, a Pulitzer Prize finalist for her play Bulrusher, is also well known for the play Angela’s Mixtape which, in part, explores her relationship with her aunt, political activist Angela Davis. Lin-Manuel Miranda is, of course, known for his groundbreaking work in theater and beyond. His musical Hamilton remains a cultural phenomenon. Eisa and Lin-Manuel both join us on The Excerpt to discuss their newest project, "Warriors," released on October 18, 2024.

This episode originally aired on October 23, 2024.

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Russia launches 'inhuman' attacks, Ukraine says Dec 26, 2024

Ukraine says Russia carried out attacks on Christmas Day. Meanwhile, Russia says it has foiled Ukrainian plots to kill senior officers with disguised bombs.

A plane crashed in Kazakhstan Wednesday, killing at least 38 people.

USA TODAY Consumer Travel Reporter Zach Wichter discusses the future of snow sports amid climate change.

President-elect Donald Trump taps Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera to serve as ambassador to Panama.

USA TODAY Books Reporter Clare Mulroy talks about some of her favorite reads of the year.

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SPECIAL | Remembering comedic genius Robin Williams with son Zak Dec 25, 2024

Robin Williams was an Oscar-winning actor and comedian best known for his improvisational skills. From his role as a radio broadcaster in “Good Morning Vietnam” to his portrayal of a man grappling with the karmic repercussions of his wife in “What Dreams May Come,” he had a powerful repertoire. Robin died 10 years ago today at the age of 63. The official cause of death was ruled a suicide. On the anniversary of his passing, we remember the incredible person he was, and celebrate his many successes on and off the big screen with his son Zak.

This episode originally aired on August 11, 2024.

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Biden signs law mandating colleges report hazing incidents Dec 25, 2024

President Joe Biden has signed legislation mandating that colleges report hazing incidents.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs has been sued by a former male employee for sexual battery, according to reports.

USA TODAY Graphics Editor George Petras takes a look at the history behind model trains and Christmas.

The start of Hanukkah falls on the same day as Christmas this year. That's a rarity.

USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz talks about the voice actors behind popular toys, and what's next for them amid a rise in AI.

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